Roadside nature reserves

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cowslip in the grass at the Bromham Bypass Roadside Nature Reserve

Bromham Bypass Roadside Nature Reserve. Photo by Heather Webb

Roadside nature reserves

One doesn’t normally associate roads with nature. But did you know that Bedfordshire’s road verges host some of the county’s most beautiful – and sometimes rare – species?

Many of our roadside nature reserves (RNR) are rich in flowers. There are two reasons for this. First, unlike many farm grasslands, road verges are not sprayed with pesticides or fertilisers. This allows a more natural and varied plant community to grow. Second, road verges are mown from time to time. Mowing acts a little like a herd of sheep. It prevents bushes and tree saplings from establishing themselves and shading out sun-loving flowers and other herbaceous plants. Common road verge plants include Oxeye Daisy, Hawkweed, Harebell, orchids and of course grasses and sedges.

Where there are flowers there are insects too. Road verges can host a wide variety of insects, in particular pollinators, which are drawn to the sweet nectar. Bees and butterflies like the Small Blue, Chalk-hill Blue and Small Copper may be found on road verges, flitting from blossom to blossom. Grasshoppers and crickets are also common road verge residents. Their characteristic “singing” can be heard in late summer.

There are currently 36 Roadside Nature Reserves in Bedfordshire. Each is marked with a small brown “NR” sign: it’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. So next time you’re whizzing along the motorway in a car or bus, remember the diverse group of creatures sharing the road with you.

Or better yet, why not stop and smell the flowers?

Please be careful and courteous when visiting roadside nature reserves. Make sure you are visible to oncoming traffic; a high-visibility vest or jacket is recommended. If you drive to an RNR, take care not to block the road or access to adjoining properties.

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